3M Nexcare is a brand of waterproof bandages that are used to protect wounds, ostomy stomas, and to secure various types of medical tubing. These bandages can also be used to keep items like IV catheters, post-surgical dressings, or other forms of tubing in the proper place. They provide a strong hold, yet are still gently on skin.
Nexcare bandages are breathable and impervious to bacteria. The flexible design increases comfort and helps protection abrasions, cuts, blisters, and more. Nexcare's unique diamond shape offers protection from water, dirt, and germs. 3M also makes liquid bandages that are sprayed or brushed onto the wound, which are ideal for people with adhesive allergies. These products are ideal to keep in a first aid kit.
Tegaderm is a line of transparent dressings made by Nexcare. The clear design allows you to monitor the condition of your wound. Tegaderm is made from a flexible material that absorbs exudate to reduce the risk of infection and skin breakdown. The material will not stick to the wound, preventing further damage that can delay healing.
Nexcare also makes a colostomy dressing that absorbs stomal output and protects against leaks. It can absorb up to ten times its weight in fluid, yet is thin and discreet. Nexcare colostomy dressings have a adhesive border and a padded interior that is secure and comfortable. This ostomy dressing is designed to be used for short periods of time, such as during showers or intimacy.
If you need to hold a non-adhesive dressing or gauze in place, Nexcare medical tape is a great option. This brand makes several varieties of tape, including paper tape and waterproof tape. Paper medical tape has a mild adhesive and is gentle on skin. It is ideal if you need to remove and reapply tape often. Waterproof tape has a stronger adhesive, which allows it to be worn for a longer period of time versus paper tape.